Liverpool are pressing ahead with plans to snap up Chelsea attacking midfielder Mason Mount but it is not a foregone conclusion that they will sign the player, according to The Athletic‘s David Ornstein.

The trusted journalist claims the Reds have already made a concerted effort to secure the services of the England international but persuading him to leave Stamford Bridge is proving to be difficult:

“Mason Mount is a player that Liverpool have definitely made attempts to sign. That would be a ferocious contest, not only about whether he might leave, but also whether he could ultimately decide to stay and Chelsea finally come to an agreement with him.”

Mount remains locked in negotiations with Chelsea about extending his contract at the London club. The 24-year-old has only a year left on his current deal but the two parties are said to be far apart on an agreement.

It is believed that Mount is currently getting £85,000 a week but he wants to be on a salary that is much closer to the team’s highest earners.

Which teams are trying to sign Mount?

In addition to Liverpool, reports have suggested that Arsenal and Manchester United are weighing up offers for the midfielder.

If Chelsea do choose to sell Mount, though, he could still cost as much as £70m, despite the limited amount of time left on his contract.